Breaking Bread Together

Let’s Gather at the Table

People often ask me, how and why do I do it? I respond, because I have a responsibility to make others feel welcomed, just as others have done it for me. They are referring to my ability of welcoming over 20 people or more at a time for dinner, routinely. Thankfully, I don’t do it alone and everyone does their part.Our family provides the main dish, a couple of vegetable sides and a few drinks. Everyone else is invited to bring an appetizer, a dessert, a side or drinks. There is no rhythm to the flow. People arrive and set their contribution on the large kitchen island. Ahead of time, I set the napkins, disposable plates, cups and cutlery. I make sure the toilets and main areas are relatively clean and inviting. We briefly say a thankful prayer before the meal; being mindful that not everyone may be of the same faith. Everyone casually helps themselves and we all have meaningful conversations about life while the children play outdoors. That’s a typical day of gathering at the Chavez Household.I grew up in a family of seven and an occasional dog. At the age of five, my father bought a home in Texas while he struggled with his professional life, as a teacher. My mother, a stay-at-home mom always made sure there were parties at our home, even when finances were not looking good. However, the best events were at my grandparent’s home. Our family would head up to Colorado where my mom’s side of the family had immigrated to in the 60’s. Once school was let out for the Holidays or vacations, we would drive up from El Paso. With an extended family of over 65, those celebrations became a learning opportunity. I saw people interacting and being there for each other. Traditions and customs of Mexican Heritage were passed down at these gatherings. My grandparents passed away a few years ago at 91/92 years of age, but even in their late years, they still enjoyed having people visit and make ordinary days into celebrations.I am so thankful that their congregating gene passed down to me, although my husband has learned to appreciate it over time. Gathering people over a meal has been the most meaningful and rewarding skill I have mastered as a citizen of this earth. Are you feeling disconnected? I encourage you to try it. Graciously, welcome people to join you in this life. Who knows, we may be at the same table sharing a meal.​

Some tips that may be useful are:

Be personal and do life with others of different backgrounds.

Don’t have any expectations.

Be casual more often than formal.

Solicit help ahead of time such as, a scheduled home cleaner and prepared meals from your local grocery store or bakery.

Allow the children to entertain themselves with minimal supervision by playing tag or even video games. ​

Sharing Life

As parent of three, the most important lesson to share with children is to love others.

Growing

​Just like the ever health giving Aloe Vera plant, we hope to touch others in ways that are meaningful and healthy.